Ban on single-use plastic packaging from July 2021

From July 3, 2021, the ban on certain single-use plastic items will come into force in Germany. This ban is part of the EU-wide measures to reduce plastic consumption, protect the oceans and the environment, and promote sustainable solutions. The measures aim to reduce plastic pollution and pave the way for more environmentally friendly alternatives.

Reasons for the ban on single-use plastic packaging

The ban on single-use plastic products is necessary to counteract the ever-growing mountains of waste and to minimize the negative impact on the environment. Plastic waste poses a serious threat to nature and the health of humans and animals. This measure is intended to pave the way for more sustainable practices.

Increasing consumption and environmental pollution

Eating out is steadily increasing. More and more people are using delivery services, and drinks to go are becoming increasingly popular. These trends are leading to an increasing use of disposable packaging, which generates significant amounts of waste. Unfortunately, this waste often ends up on the streets, in nature or on beaches.

Dangers to the oceans and long-term environmental impact

Every year, a large proportion of plastic waste ends up in the oceans worldwide. Around 85 percent of marine waste consists of plastic. Plastic waste in the water breaks down into microplastics, which pose a major threat to many marine creatures. Plastic is not biodegradable and therefore remains in our environment indefinitely. The flood of plastic not only endangers the habitats in the oceans, but also nature as a whole and thus human health.

Affected single-use plastic products and alternatives

By banning these single-use items, the EU wants to encourage the development and use of sustainable alternatives. Switching to more environmentally friendly products should help reduce the amount of plastic waste and protect the environment in the long term. There are already many viable alternatives that are less harmful to the environment.

Prohibited products from July 3, 2021

From 3 July 2021, the following single-use plastic products may no longer be produced across the EU:

• Disposable cutlery and tableware: forks, knives, spoons, plates and bowls made of plastic.
• Drinking straws and stirrers: Plastic straws and stirrers for drinks.
• Cotton swabs and balloon sticks: Cotton swabs (except for medical purposes) and sticks for holding balloons.
• To-go items made of Styrofoam (EPS): disposable beverage cups, food packaging and fast-food containers made of expanded polystyrene.
• PLA-based products: disposable plates, cups or cutlery made of polylactic acid (PLA).

Sustainable Alternatives and Their Benefits

By banning these single-use items, the EU wants to encourage the development and use of sustainable alternatives. Here are some examples and their benefits:

• Reusable products: Reusable cups, plates and cutlery made of metal, glass or sturdy plastic.
• Biodegradable materials: Products made from materials such as bamboo, wood or compostable bioplastics.
• Deposit systems: Deposit cups and containers that can be returned after use and reused.